Some of the most sought-after destinations on the Italian Riviera, like Portofino and Cinque Terre, were once quiet fishing villages, a situation hard to imagine now, considering how these alluring havens attracted throngs of visitors in pre-pandemic times. (The Local reports about 2.5 million tourists a year for Cinque Terre.)

No doubt they will retain their magnetic pull once travel returns to normal, but if you love these enchanted places (and who doesn’t?), you may want to consider visiting at quieter times of the year. And when traveling in summer, try to seek out less-crowded Riviera spots, those insider favorites that offer stunning sea views, colorful waterfronts, history, art, and great food, like their famous counterparts.